High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta – A Weeknight Power Meal

Looking for a comforting dinner that’s high in protein, easy to make, and totally satisfying? This High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is your new go-to. Made with lean ground beef, high-protein pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a hungry family in under 30 minutes.

If you’re diving into protein dinner recipes, looking for ground beef pasta ideas, or needing high protein meals that actually taste amazing, this one has it all—richness, flavor, and a muscle-building macro boost.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beef Pasta

• Packed with 35–40g protein per serving

• Quick and easy—30 minutes from start to finish

• Family-friendly and kid-approved

• Made with simple, affordable pantry staples

• Perfect for meal prep or freezing

This is exactly the kind of dish that checks every box for a fast dinner recipe—flavorful, filling, and flexible.

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Ingredients Overview: Smart Swaps for Maximum Protein

Here’s what you need to make a creamy, protein-rich beef pasta without sacrificing flavor or convenience.

Ground Beef (Lean, 90% or higher)

• Core protein source

• Leaner beef keeps the dish heartier without excess fat

• Can substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles

High-Protein Pasta

• Look for brands made from chickpeas, lentils, edamame, or whole wheat

• Regular pasta works too, but high-protein options give you an extra 10–15g of protein per serving

Greek Yogurt or Low-Fat Cream Cheese

• Adds creaminess with less fat than heavy cream

• Greek yogurt adds a protein boost + tangy flavor

Shredded Cheese (Cheddar or Mozzarella)

• Melts into the sauce for that gooey, comforting finish

• Adds fat and flavor balance

Tomato Paste or Crushed Tomatoes

• Balances richness with acidity

• Adds umami and depth

Garlic + Onion

• Builds flavor for the beef and sauce

Beef Broth or Pasta Water

• Loosens the sauce while keeping flavor strong

Spices:

• Salt + Pepper

• Paprika for warmth

• Italian Seasoning for a herby finish

• Optional: Red chili flakes for heat

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Step-by-Step Instructions: Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a pot of salted water to a boil

• Cook 8 oz high-protein pasta until al dente

• Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside

2. Brown the Beef

• In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat

• Add 1 lb lean ground beef, season with salt and pepper

• Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking into crumbles (6–7 minutes)

• Drain excess fat if needed

3. Add Aromatics & Tomato Base

• Stir in 1 small diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves

• Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened

• Add 2 tbsp tomato paste (or ½ cup crushed tomatoes)

• Cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor

4. Create the Creamy Sauce

• Lower the heat

• Stir in:

  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or 4 oz low-fat cream cheese)

  • ½ cup shredded cheese

  • Splash of pasta water or beef broth to thin as needed

• Mix until creamy and smooth

5. Toss in Pasta

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet

• Toss until well coated in the beefy, cheesy sauce

• Let simmer for 2 minutes to thicken

6. Finish & Serve

• Taste and adjust seasoning

• Garnish with fresh parsley, basil, or a sprinkle of parmesan

• Serve hot!

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Make It Your Way: Variations & Custom Add-Ins

Swap the Protein

• Ground turkey or chicken for leaner options

• Lentil-based meat alternatives for plant-based protein

Add Veggies

• Stir in chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers

• Frozen peas or broccoli are easy adds for texture and color

Boost the Cream Factor

• Add ¼ cup of milk or cream if you want extra richness

• Blend in cottage cheese for more protein and a velvety texture

Herbs & Spices

• Smoked paprika or cumin for a twist

• A pinch of nutmeg adds depth to creamy sauces

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Perfect for…

• Busy weeknights – on the table in under 30 minutes

• Post-workout dinners – replenishes protein and carbs

• Family meals – mild, creamy, and universally loved

• High protein meal prep – reheats well and keeps you full

Storage:
Keeps in the fridge up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.

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Nutrition & Health Benefits

This meal is designed to satisfy and fuel:

• High in protein: beef, pasta, yogurt, and cheese contribute

• Balanced carbs and fats for energy and satiety

• Lower in fat with Greek yogurt or light cream cheese

• Customizable sodium when using low-sodium broth or cheese

Estimated Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 500–550

• Protein: 35–40g

• Carbs: 35–40g

• Fat: 20–25g

• Fiber: 4–6g

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FAQ: Creamy High Protein Beef Pasta

1. Can I make this without dairy?

Yes! Use unsweetened plant-based yogurt and dairy-free cheese. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor.

2. What’s the best high-protein pasta?

Brands like Banza (chickpea), Barilla Protein+, or Lentil pasta all work great and boost protein significantly.

3. Can I make this spicy?

Absolutely. Add chili flakes, cayenne, or chopped jalapeños while cooking the beef.

4. Can I freeze it?

Yes—cool completely and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat with a splash of broth or milk.

5. Can I meal prep this for the week?

Yes. It keeps well for 4 days. Great for lunch or dinner meal prep when paired with veggies or salad.

6. Can I add beans for more protein?

Definitely. Add a ½ cup of black beans or white beans for a fiber and protein bonus.

7. What vegetables pair best with this?

Spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, broccoli, zucchini—all stir in well and balance the richness of the sauce.

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